Columbia Wrongful Death Lawyers

Securing Closure for Families Left Behind – Call (816) 888-7500

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence is an unthinkable tragedy, but sadly, it happens far too often in the United States. National law mandates, however, that if another party engaged in negligence that caused the passing of your loved one, you have a legal right to pursue a wrongful death claim through the civil justice system to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. If you work with DiPasquale Moore, our Columbia wrongful death lawyers will provide you with caring legal counsel, as we know how stressful and heartbreaking this time can be. We advocate for each client as if they were our own family member, applying all our resources and skills to reinforce a case’s strengths. Let us take care of the legal red tape while you take the time you need to mourn your loved one.

Call (573) 444-8888 or contact us online today for a free consultation.

Am I Eligible for a Wrongful Death Claim?

In legal terms, any death occurring because of another person’s negligent actions is deemed a “wrongful death.” According to Missouri Revised Statutes Section 537.080, individuals eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim include:

• Surviving spouses
• Surviving parents
• Natural children
• Adopted children
• Illegitimate and/or legitimate children
• Lineal descendants of any deceased children
• Siblings or any of their descendants

A court may appoint a plaintiff to represent a person lawfully deemed incapable to pursue a claim if none of the above relations of the deceased are eligible or wish to bring forth a claim.

What If My Loved One Died After the Accident?

Wrongful death does not only apply to victims who pass away during the accident but also includes individuals who later succumb to their fatal injuries. For example, if a person was severely burned in a structure fire, then later died because those burns were aggravated or progressed into an untreatable condition, wrongful death law still applies.

Damages for Wrongful Death Claims

Claimants can seek compensation for any damages related to their loss, whether economic or non-economic. Some examples of damages you may be compensated for include:

• Funeral and/or burial expenses
• Loss of future wages and/or financial benefits
• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering experienced by your loved one prior to death
• Loss of guidance, support, companionship, and/or consortium

For some cases, such as preventable deaths resulting from medical malpractice, Missouri law limits the amount of non-economic damages available to claimants. A Columbia wrongful death attorney can assist you in determining which damages and limits, if any, apply to your case.

Filing Deadlines

The state of Missouri allows three years from the date of death (not the accident) to file a wrongful death claim. This accounts for any deaths occurring days or even weeks after the initial accident. While this deadline may seem far off into the future, it is best to consult a professional attorney as soon as possible to begin the legal process. The more time you give them to prepare your claim, the stronger it will be.

Don’t Wait. Call Our Firm to Get Started on Your Claim.

At DiPasquale Moore, we understand the emotional distress, pain, hardship, and financial setbacks associated with a loved one’s unexpected demise. Our Columbia wrongful death lawyers have decades of experience navigating the complexities of these claims and have won six- and seven-figure settlements and verdicts for our clients. In addition, we are acclaimed by many industry organizations for our work. Put your case in experienced hands.

Call (573) 444-8888 or contact us online today for a free consultation.